I agree with this - we're in our early 40s now, and I look around at people who had the opportunity to get into the housing market for example when it was much cheaper, and it's hard that we're just behind financially. Our retirement planning in SA was ahead of schedule, and now we're so far behind what we need in Australian terms to retire comfortably, it's laughable. If you think you're going to make the move, do it sooner rather than later.

Speaking from personal experience - once you get the visa - move then and there. Do not wait for the five years to move over! Starting from scratch is very hard and by waiting an additional five years you just delay the inevitable. Move soon, start your new life sooner rather than later. I agree with what was said previously - you have to be on the same page as your partner. Immigration will push you to your limits and will test your relationship.

My advice (to all and for future reference) - officially renounce your South African citizenship and travel to and from South Africa with your Aussie passports.. If you ever want to return to South Africa permanently, you can simply apply to get your citizenship back. I cannot see the value of holding onto South-African citizenship if you have no intention of returning to South Africa permanently and if you are free to come and go as you want without it. Saves you the trouble and stress of constantly having to renew passports etc.
More about getting your RSA citizenship back here:
https://www.sapeople.com/2014/07/10/what-do-if-lost-south-african-citizenship-785/

You're forgetting one very important detail, you're dealing with a South African government official here. An official that has been told that he needs to check the letter from home affairs that you don't have. 😂